Salim Khan Rejects Padma Shri

Screenwriter Salim Khan rejected the Padma Shri Award, which he felt has come too late. He said, "For years, the central government has ignored me, honouring a number of my peers as well as juniors in the industry.

When I heard that my name is on the Padma awards list, I thought that I'm finally getting what I deserve. But when I came to know that the ministry has chosen me for Padma Shri, I felt it does not match my status and work. I deserve more than that.

Even my erstwhile partner, Javed Akhtar, has received both a Padma Shri and a Padma Bhushan." He was also quoted as saying in reports that it would be wrong on his part to accept a Padma Bhushan also now.

He said, "It would set a wrong precedent. Awards are a good incentive for young people as recognition and appreciation for their work. But for me, the excitement has long ebbed. I have never craved awards."